HIV Prevention Injection Approved in England and Wales

For the first time, patients in England and Wales will be offered an injection to prevent HIV on the NHS, aligning their policy with Scotland. The new treatment — cabotegravir (CAB-LA) — is a long-acting injection given every two months, offering an alternative to daily PrEP pills.

Experts say this breakthrough could help the UK meet its goal of ending new HIV infections by 2030. Health Secretary Wes Streeting called the approval a “game-changing” step that embodies the government’s commitment to cutting-edge healthcare and inclusivity.

HIV prevention therapy, known as PrEP, has long relied on daily pills to protect HIV-negative individuals at risk. However, not everyone finds it easy or practical to take medication every day.

The cabotegravir injection offers a discreet and convenient option, especially for those facing homelessness, domestic challenges, or stigma. The NHS will initially offer the jab to around 1,000 eligible people, with others continuing oral PrEP. Meanwhile, early research into another drug, lenacapavir, raises hopes for an annual HIV prevention jab in the future.

Campaigners, including the Terrence Higgins Trust, have praised the decision but are urging a rapid rollout beyond sexual health clinics to reach underserved groups. Official data shows uptake of PrEP is increasing but remains uneven, particularly among black African heterosexual men and women. Advocates believe this new injectable option could help bridge that gap and bring the UK closer to eliminating new HIV transmissions.